Doopvont in de Collegiale kerk Onze-Lieve-Vrouw te Dinant before 1889

Here's an image of the baptismal font in the Collegiate Church of Our Lady in Dinant. While we don't know the artist, or even the exact date of its creation, it speaks volumes about the medieval period's views on religion, community, and identity. Baptism, the ritual performed in this font, is about initiating individuals into a religious community, marking their identity as Christians, and washing away original sin. The communal nature of baptism emphasized social cohesion during a time of fragmented feudal societies. Religious identity often superseded other forms of identity such as regional or ethnic affiliations. The weight of stone contrasts with the hope of spiritual rebirth. It invites us to reflect on the power of religious institutions in shaping personal and collective identities. As we consider this image, let's consider how spaces like these contribute to the intricate weave of our shared histories.